PG Music Home Forums General Discussion Off-Topic Reason To Be Here?

I had a great conversation with a friend recently that got me thinking...yes on occasion that does happen for me.

In reviewing what I want 2017 to be I had to ask myself what my purpose is in coming here. My name was to be a reminder of my intentions. However, it seems a bit selfish to only be "here to learn." To listen and not give back. It's a community after all.

I do not belong to any other forums. I am on facebook, but for professional reasons. It's not a social thing for me. I prefer voice conversations for that, so you get intent MUCH better.

I have realized over my time here that intentionally my comments where probably considered "harsh" or "bold." In person, I believe they would not have been so much. So I learned to back off. Even then, I felt my contributions became more distractions from the point I was attempting to make.

One thing I have felt fairly consistently over the time here is there are certain genres of music that really are not accepted here. I feel that's too bad; because I believe so much can be learned from people who are different than yourself. I personally never want to limit myself to "just me."

For the life of me, I can't imagine going into someone's thread and saying how bad that style of music is. Why comment if the intent isn't to help in some way? Perhaps you feel you are, but it's really just an opinion complaint.

I'm at the point where my comments are pretty much "great job" or nothing at all. It's slightly encouraging but not really productive for anyone.

Since I've been here I have posted a grand total of 1 song. I did get compliments that I appreciated for sure! However, that song is not my normal genre I write in. It is a genre I like, and was a blast to write, but I don't think my other work would be received well.

To be clear, I'm thick skinned enough to not be insulted; but I also self aware enough to not want to bring a double quarter-pounder into a Peta rally

I get it's not like the forum is really impacted at all if I were not to participate. I just can't seem to find the reason to.

Just curious thoughts from everyone. I receive enough PM's from people, so if you are more comfortable that way, I'm good with that as well.

Thanks all! Happy 2017!

What genres of music are not accepted here? Maybe heavy metal and avant-garde won't have as many listeners, but that doesn't mean they would be dismissed out of hand. Maybe you have first hand experience with that and I missed it. That could be, I haven't done too much listening here in a year (but I plan to adjust that in 2017).

We got both kinds of music here. Country and Western.

Well....

Admittedly, I'm not a prolific poster nor to I strive to write song after song to enter contests and/or solicit feedback on my efforts.

My actual purpose here is for BIAB/RB knowledge and tips.
I'm sure I've just scratched the surface of all the capabilities of this program.

On a daily basis, I check out (4) forums pretty thoroughly.
Since I've been here I've commented (favorably) on maybe 6-8 songs in the User Showcase if the song as a whole really grabbed me....even though the obviously popular genre's here are not my preference or the style I write in.
In this context, I just stay with if one can't say something genuinely complimentary or encouraging then don't say anything.

Personally, I haven't noticed any rejection (however subtle your perception) or disinterest in a particular genre.
But, I have been wrong in the past.

Ultimately, this site (all forums) has a very friendly, helpful group of participants.
Plus, I've not been banned yet!

Here's to 2017....a good year to all.

Radio friendly pop, country, rock or rap...or that may be 1 genre at this point I'm sure there are others. Just going off of comments that are fairly consistently thrown into conversations.

That is true...:)

sounds like you are overthinking this one a wee bit.

Harsh, bold, crits, mere distractions and aimless ramblings instead of addressing the point in some useful manner....... man that sounds like me.

As far as thinking that your preferred style/genre won't be accepted here much.... and so therefore you don't post it..... well isn't that kind of self defeating? You'll never know until you post it to see.

Most folks will be kind and reply "Good job" so go ahead and bring that triple cheeseburger into the "PETA" rally...as you put it. What's the worst that could happen...? Someone might comment... "What the $%@* were you thinking...?" and then you'll know for sure that that genre isn't appreciated.

Of course, 99.9% of this post is possibly hyperbole and is not meant to be taken seriously..... that other one tenth of one percent is deadly serious however.

Drop in when you feel like it.... post your favorite genre if you want..... and if you don't.... hey, we understand (not really, how could anyone not want to hang out here?) but it is what it is.

as for me.... it's raining and misty, but I'm off to the farm where there is no internet. Gonna train the dog on some HRD and work on my studio a bit more.

interesting observation, one that has crossed my mind from time to time. I'd like to modify your logic with some distinctions that seem significant to my reasoning process (others may disagree, which is normal and even desirable)

First of all, there's a difference between music not being "accepted" and being "universally liked". If you aren't prohibited from posting it, then it's accepted.

In the other direction (of universal acceptance) I think you'd be hard pressed to find ANY genre that is. As a performer who makes a conscious effort to embrace a wide variety of music, I'm always surprised by the recurring theme of musical fascism. I don't get it, but I accept that people are entitled to like what they like and dislike everything else.

This group is pretty open-minded in my opinion... but that open-mindedness comes with a wicked sense of humor. I submit the possibility that at least some of what probably comes across as criticism is actually intended as tongue-in-cheek playfulness.

Regarding the pointlessness of participation:
In my opinion the great thing about forums (especially those forums that are as full of rational and reasonable people as this one is) is the free exchange of ideas that might never have crossed your mind otherwise.

Some of the best discussions here have been on topics with which I have not been in agreement, because those are the discussions that are most likely to yield fresh perspectives.

You and I have talked privately, and I know you are a thinker, someone who doesn't necessarily want to rock the boat, but who is open to exploring ideas outside the box. Every forum needs that.

I think the topics you have opened on the forum have been among the most interesting, partly because they are also somewhat inflammatory and therefore they evoke multiple strong and honest responses. You couldn't ask for a better formula for discussion.

This is not to be confused with the practice of entering a bar, starting an argument then walking out... which is (in my opinion) disruptive and disingenuous. I think the redeeming point of strong discussions is the genuine interest in hearing the points that naturally arise from such discussions. And I think you have never been disingenuous, which is why your topics have ended up mostly peaceful and interesting.

My 2 cents.. other peoples' mileage may vary.

I'm one of your biggest fans. Both of your posts and your one posted song. I've read most, if not all, of your posts.

I will respond my thoughts to your points from the perspective of being your fan and what impressions have stood out to me.

<< I have realized over my time here that intentionally my comments where probably considered "harsh" or "bold." >> Intentionally by whom? You are us? I'm thinking you mean us and not you. That you feel the interpretation would be different is an important fact for you to consider. As an ardent reader of your posts, I'm left with two definitive perceptions. First, although you may be asking a question, you do so from a preconceived personal opinion that is already established though it may not be expressed in your writing. Which takes me to my second interpretation that you are not as "thick skinned" as you perceive yourself to be.


"I get it's not like the forum is really impacted at all if I were not to participate. I just can't seem to find the reason to." has been a consistent theme of your posts since the beginning. In my opinion, that is our loss. Both if you decide to end posting but also in what we've received from you in your previous posts. It's clear you have a lot of 'heretogive' as much so as 'heartolearn'.

You are a great lyricist but maybe not as great a conversational writer as you could be. The tone of a sentence is determined by the words used. You never hear a great comedian preface a joke with "this is supposed to be funny". No. They rewrite their work until it is clear. I'll admit that I'm certainly not a great conversational writer and I'm grateful that my computer desk is located in my kitchen area. On more occasions that I can count, I've rewritten or deleted a post after hearing my wife inquire, "you're not really going to post that are you?" Ouch.....

Just as you feel the tone of your comments are often mistaken by forum members, give that same benefit to your responders. Written conversation is hard for everyone.

I've found it rare where threads have gotten personal or out of hand here on the forum. I only participate in one other forum, one about dog training, and it gets as intense and personal as religion or politics. Posting here is a lot more fun.

"...but I don't think my other work would be received well."

The BIAB facebook page is full of posters claiming BIAB can't do modern country, EDM, Heavy Metal, et al. It can actually do any genre give time and talent. There are far more registered users than active posters. I'm convinced that not only are top tier producers and engineers quietly using BIAB in some fashion daily, but that BIAB tracks have quietly made it onto mainstream commercial releases. I know first hand BIAB suite of tools with a DAW can produce very precise and accurate covers. I have no doubt the genres listed at the beginning of my paragraph are widely produced by users around the world. The fact they are not being posted on the User Showcase may be more a reflection of the demographics of the active posters than anything else.

If your normal body of work is so radically different, it is quite possible that you can bring forth many advance uses of BiAB/RB that are not currently well known. They may not be fans of your musical genre, but love your techniques and workflow....

2017 will be a happier year with you here with us on the forum...

Charlie

))) One thing I have felt fairly consistently over the time here is there are certain genres of music that really are not accepted here. Radio friendly pop, country, rock or rap...or that may be 1 genre at this point wink I'm sure there are others. Just going off of comments that are fairly consistently thrown into conversations.

------------
In my experience, all musical genres are welcome and discussed here. And hopefully are also represented in BIAB.

I've posted some pretty wild things here .. never had a problem.
Hard rock, live/garage band, odd times ..
Sure some people don't like it, same as I don't like certain things.
All part of being in a community.

Like others, sometimes I listen to something and think 'man, I'd have done this, this and that differently'.
Doesn't mean I'm right; it is their song to ruin as they see fit. <grin>
So I tell them what I liked about it. If asked, I'll give an honest opinion including what I'd change; depends on the post and request.
Most of the honest ones come via PM .. guess that's just human nature. Safer for all parties.


People will always be predisposed to their preferences, but hopefully not to the point of exclusion.
If we were, we'd never have had artists like Bowie or Yes or Crimson or (insert your personal faves here) that changed music.

By all means jump in and get your feet wet so WE can learn.

That pretty much lines up with my reasoning as well. But it has been leaving me with a "taker not a giver" kind of feeling. That's all on me though. No one has been accusing me of it or anything! I guess if it doesn't bother others, I won't let it bother me.



I've seen enough enough posts, not A LOT, but not few either negative comments about genres. Many times without asking someones opinion of it. It's usually of the "I can't stand that crap" type of comment.

I get it's the internet and everyone is entitled to their opinion. I'm not looking to changed the forums here. Just trying to figure out a good route to go with music.

As far as being wrong, I'm in the group often enough myself! If I'm not wrong now, give it a little time



No doubt about that! I honestly don't feel the intent is to alienate by any means. I really don't think you will find a more helpful group of people out there!

As far as being banned...you can do it! I believe in you

Thanks much for the reply! I always enjoy your view on things!

"By all means jump in and get your feet wet so WE can learn."



Here, here.

HTL, I like your posts but this isn't the first time you've written that perhaps you're not appreciated here or receive too much criticism or whatever.

My solution is to go back to basics like the football coach talking to his team who hasn't won in 2 years pointing with his finger>>...This. Is. A. Football.

Forget any commentary about life experiences and focus on the products Biab and Real Band. Hang out in those two forums exclusively for a while and focus on the nuts and bolts of those. Learn and answer some noob posts. You know a lot already. Almost daily we get a question about audio glitches. You know that's about latency, ASIO and computer settings. Answer that post.

Bob

Originally, I was going to respond to each of you. There are just SOOO many great points that have been made that it would take me too long. Man, ya'll never fail to impress me!

I'm going to chalk this one up to me. A learning experience. It's not the thin/thick skinned thing. I'm actually pretty ok in life overall. Thankfully, even with 6 kids, not much drama!

I saw today that people were all over Steve Martin for his comments about Carrie Fisher's passing. I don't think he meant ANYTHING bad by his comments in the least. Yet, there were people that twisted what he said into something else. I'm thinking that's life.

As far as comments made here, there wasn't anything against me or my work...well, my one song...lol. It was about the genres I tend to write in. To just put it "out there"...I write things along the lines of Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Dan and Shay, Rascal Flatts, Randy Houser, Keith Urban...even Nickelback at times.

There is even some (very limited) rap that I'm impressed with...but don't write. I feel if you haven't seen "Epic Rap Battles Of History", you are missing out on some impressive writing!

I don't know that I've ever seen comments about other genres or bands on here that get negatively commented on in the same way some of what is EXTREMELY popular with the general public is.

There are artists that have sold millions that I don't care for their music. I don't get why I think it's so bad or say it's $%&^. They must be doing something right to get sales like that! I'm not going to be a part of it, or by my comments discourage someone from coming here and using BIAB to do that type of music. More power to them! It helps the product, and it helps us users, IMO. But that's just it...that's my opinion.

That got me thinking, I'm sure people maybe don't see it because it doesn't affect them. Like if someone on here said "Reggae is the lamest music in the world"...it wouldn't impact me much. It's not that I don't like reggae, but it wouldn't impact me because I don't listen to it much or write it. But if you listen to reggae you might be a bit more bothered by the comment.

So I guess some things I need to sort out. It's probably mostly coming from my need to want to contribute. I see opportunities now though. I was unaware of the facebook comments. I will say this, you ABSOLUTELY can write in those styles with BIAB!! I'm probably preaching to the choir on that, as you all know.

For what it's worth, I'm so glad I brought it up. When I say I am impressed by the comments, and REALLY mean that! I'm pretty much always expect good responses, but always find myself amazed at how insightful you all are. Not to mention, that you take the time to comment, is awesome as well!

I'm sure I may have addition comments, but forum writing is NOT my forte! I always feel you can say sooo much in so few words with a song. Here I write a novel and feel I still didn't do justice! LOL!

Thanks!

Oh gosh, I want to clarify this. It's not that I don't feel appreciated or people are criticizing me. Not by a long shot.

It's more struggling with if this is a good place to post what I work on. It's honestly not because I think it's so great. If anything, it's the opposite...to work on it...but constructively. I have looked to see how much interest would be in some of those genres...not a whole lot. I contrast that with the number of albums being sold in those genres and don't understand the gap.



As always Bob, well said! Thanks for the comments!

In my time here on this forum - a mere few months but daily - I would say tolerance and respect are THE key features. Generally I find Internet behaviour depressing. It's a credit to the community here that a netiquette has been established that allows people to freely express opinions and post songs without fear of flaming. Sometimes senior community members have to step in but even this is done graciously. If you are respectful towards others then the forum is as democratic as you could ask for.

As for genre preferences, demographics and the nature of BIAB both play a role. The focus is on real instruments and they are generally favoured by people of a certain age for certain styles. There's no conspiracy.

Personally I enjoy connecting with other artists and I've learned a lot that has helped me in the 'trade'.

First...
Thanks for your kind closing line.
I choose my thread participation very carefully and try to articulate my responses clearly, respectfully and sometimes bluntly.

Ha....re: 'banned' camp.
If you think I have that potential maybe I'll try harder.
Also, if I'm 'wrong' frequently I won't be held to higher posting expectations.

Genre opinions...
I feel my genre of preference differs from any consensus here but it's of no consequence.
In all honesty, I've never been a Bowie, Micheal Jackson or pop fan.
But...on any open forum I would not go out of my way to express that view just to be contentious....that's juvenile.
Whether I like it or not is irrelevant and one can't deny their individual impact over decades and their deserved respect in the music arena. (oh...they'll all race me to the bank too)

We all write from various mind sets and creative perspectives.
The fact what we do may have no mass appeal should not keep one from continuing to write even if the only reason is for personal creative therapy...which is, where I hail from.
I'm just an old Marine that likes to write songs in my own unpopular genre which is still yet to be defined.

Carry on weed hoppers....

Post a song to the Showcase. PLEASE.

I'm pretty sure you would blow everyone away.

And I would LOVE to hear someone use BIAB to get a truly "today's Country" sound...And, then, explain how you did it... I'd like to know. And it would be a good way to bring a younger crowd into the fold. This software is so incredible. We should do everything we can to "spread the word" so it continues to grow.

I did a PUNK song - I got some push-back before it was posted, but it was well accepted by this community. And a Latin Rock song. Some rock (though people keep calling it "Country Rock"). A blues song - Janice sang the hell out of it!! My main thing is what I would call 90's Country. I encouraged everyone to listen to the new Mark Chestnutt record (thanks, again, Bud!)...But I would LOVE to hear someone do 2017 Country. And, perhaps suggest what is lacking on the current offerings to "update" BIAB to include it....

And... perhaps you could get all the people who hang out in the Off-Topics - and never go slummin' in the Showcase - to participate over there as well...

Do it, buddy. Please.

Hi HTL.
You've got me curious to hear more of your music now! Please post some more.
Don't worry about genres (I doubt they really exist anyhow) and as PG says have fun.
Hopefully that's a reason to be here.
Cheers.